Was at a bank for 20+ years but moved away and found another job in another town for 2 years now. Now, old bank has a recruiter looking for someone for my old position. I want to apply. They want 5 business references. My references would be at the old job. How do I handle that? (especially if I don't want some of the other employees there to know I am applying) Also, for writing a letter of reference, do you address it to the recruiter?

Is it the recruiter asking for the references? I'd bet so. The recruiter may just be checking you out to avoid being embarrassed if there is something in your background before they risk floating you as a candidate to your old employer.

Why not just contact your old employer directly?

That's what I was thinking Just Jay.